After a brief reprieve, the Canadian dollar is getting softer against the US greenback. Reports this morning show a bearish (soft ) outlook for the Loonie, in part due to latest GDP and indications from the Bank of Canada that the expected interest rate hike may be delayed.

What's this got to do with kites? Well, kites generally trade in US dollars, and as such, when our Loonie is soft it makes kites a little more expensive. This being the case, buying kites in Canada can help you avoid credit cards surprises and customs costs and delays.

Of the many things we are proud of at the Great Canadian Kite Company. we take pride that we can compete well with often larger US kite retailers. I have met many of these owners and staff and I have to say they are top notch folks! They run good, honest businesses. Sometimes though, Canadian kite shoppers believe better deals are to be had south of the border, BUT we are working hard to make sure that we are your first choice for quality kites and kite accessories!

Before you make that purchase from the USA, consider:

Exchange Rates - There are many currency converters online. It is important to understand that these converters will give you a rates based upon the most recent close of the currency market and do not include the fee that your credit card issuer charges for processing the exchange. This could be anywhere between 2-5% more! I speak to many folks who get their credit card statement and realized what they thought was such a good deal turned out to be not so great after all.

Current exchange rate + Credit Card Exchange Fee x Cost of item in US Dollars = cost in Canadian funds.

Shipping Cost - Free Shipping on US sites usually mean in the continental USA, and don't usually apply to Canada. In general, the shipping costs (in adjusted currency) are very similar and often you will receive your kite sooner from us. Unfortunately, your order from the States can be at the mercy of Canada Customs and their processing volume.

Import Costs & Fees - Many folks have expressed surprise of having to pay more for their item at time of delivery. Many report Sales Tax (GST or HST) payable at time of delivery. Some have been hit with broker costs and processing fees from $25 - $80 depending on how their kites are shipped.

After-Sale Service - We pride ourselves on "being there" even after the sale is done. Don't misunderstand me, many US kite retailers are great as well, but as your home-grown Kite Shop, we can generally address your concerns, part requirements, etc. and get them delivered to you faster and always at a competitive price.

Returns & Exchanges - Great Canadian Kite Company has one of the most generous return and exchange policies and making your exchange or return is faster and easier than doing so back to the USA. Shipping costs are often significantly less and turn around times much faster!

Special Orders - We have a good inventory of in-stock kites and accessories. Many of these are elite kites from some of the Best Kite Makers in the world. We choose our suppliers very carefully and have endeavoured to build good relationships with them. As such, if we don't have that special kite you want in stock; we are often able to special order. Quickly and easily!

Canadian Jobs & Canadian Economy - We are a family owned and operated Canadian Kite retailer based in Taber, Alberta. We support kite events and charities in Canada. When you buy from us you are supporting Canadian small business, who in turn invest in the local economy.